You've heard of companion planting, but what about plants that just really don't get along? While planning your garden this season, it's helpful to know where to draw the battle lines
When deciding on a layout, consider whether paired plants would compete for nutrients, attract the same pests or diseases, release growth-inhibiting compounds, or have conflicting water and sunlight needs.
Here are a few plants we recommend keeping apart!
Dill and Tomatoes
Dill is a wonderfully fragrant garnish and generally a fantastic companion plant for edibles, as it attracts ladybugs and other predators to aphids.
However, mature dill can impede tomato growth by releasing compounds that hinder root development. If you love both, plant young dill near tomatoes, but relocate it before it fully matures.
See also:
Corn and Tomatoes: Corn and tomatoes may seem like a great summer pairing, but they are both heavy feeders that deplete the soil quickly. Even worse, they attract the same pests, especially the corn earworm and tomato hornworm. Consider planting corn with beans or squash for a classic ‘Three Sisters’ planting instead.
Carrot and Dill: Even though they seem like a natural match, dill and carrots don’t play nice. Dill releases compounds that can stunt carrot growth and affect its flavor. Instead, try pairing carrots with onions or leeks, which help deter carrot-loving pests.
Asparagus and Onions
While asparagus might be delcious with some caramelized onions on the dinner table, grow them well apart in a garden bed. The two share similar pests, meaning close crops are easier for insects to target. Plus, onions tend to stunt asparagus growth.
A better alternative? Pair asparagus with basil or parsley, which deter common asparagus pests.
Peppers and Cabbage
Similarly, cabbage and peppers require the same sort of nutrients. Planting these two cripsy crunches next to each other puts them in competition and reduces harvests. This also applies to broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, which are in the same Brassica family!
Hot Tip: Instead, try planting peppers with basil, which helps repel pests like aphids and spider mites.
Beans and Onions
Another pairing that just doesn't get along in the garden! In basic terms, beans and onions require very different growing conditions to thrive, not to mention that beans fix the nitrogen levels in the soil, which onions do not enjoy in large amounts. Like with asaparagus, beans will be stunted if grown near onions.
For a happier pairing, grow beans with carrots or marigolds instead!
See also:
Cucumbers and Potatoes: Both cucumbers and potatoes are prone to blight, making them a dangerous duo in the garden. Potatoes also release chemicals that hinder cucumber growth. For better results, plant cucumbers near peas or radishes, which make great companions.
Peas and Garlic
Yes, garlic is great in almost every savory dish, but it's no-go for peas. Garlic produces compounds that stunt pea growth, and competes for nutrients.
The same goes for other members of the allium family, like onions, shallots, and leeks. Instead, plant peas with radishes or lettuce, which thrive together without competing.
And an extra special shout-out to mint! This culinary delight is an aggressive spreader, running the risk of growing over all other plants and consuming their nutrients. We highly advise only growing mint in a pot or container to prevent your valuable garden from becoming... minted.
